The Jacksonville Jaguars have made it clear they’re going all-in on the 2026 season after adding three defensive players at the trade deadline, bringing in Jessie Bates III, Jordan Davis, and Davon Godchaux while giving up significant draft capital in the process.

That leaves the Jaguars with a decision to make. ESPN analyst Field Yates believes they should consider moving one player to replenish their draft capital, naming wide receiver Brian Thomas Jr. as a potential trade candidate.

Field Yates Advocates For Jaguars to Trade Brian Thomas Jr.

Jacksonville has already parted with several future draft picks to complete its recent acquisitions, including its 2027 first- and second-round selections, a 2029 second-rounder, a conditional 2028 sixth-round pick, and a 2028 fifth-rounder.

Yates addressed the cost of those moves, noting how little draft capital the Jaguars have left. He also argued that trading Thomas could help the team recover some of those picks.

“I know they say they’re not motivated to trade, but moving Brian Thomas Jr. would help a team now shorter on draft capital,” argued the analyst.

Jacksonville had previously maintained that it was not actively looking to trade Thomas. However, Adam Schefter recently reported that the team is listening to offers ahead of the Nov. 10 deadline.

Thomas has also seen his role shrink in head coach Liam Coen’s offense, making his situation one to watch.

The 24-year-old receiver entered the league with high expectations after earning Pro Bowl honors as a rookie in 2024. His production has dropped sharply this season, with just 10 catches for 117 yards through eight games. He has also gone without a reception in three of his last four appearances.

Thomas’ limited role was especially noticeable against Baltimore. He played just 19 of Jacksonville’s 56 offensive snaps and wasn’t targeted. Moving him could help the Jaguars recoup some draft capital while giving another team a chance to take a chance on a young receiver with proven potential.

The Kansas City Chiefs and Pittsburgh Steelers have emerged as potential destinations. Kansas City has reportedly shown interest as it looks for help at receiver before the deadline. Xavier Worthy is day-to-day with a hamstring injury, while Tyquan Thornton remains on injured reserve with a dislocated ankle. Rashee Rice has also dealt with a hamstring injury this season, leaving the Chiefs to rely more heavily on younger options.

The Washington Commanders could also pursue Thomas, while the Miami Dolphins and Seattle Seahawks have been mentioned as possible alternatives.

Jacksonville’s recent moves have addressed several immediate needs on defense. The Jaguars rank No. 4 in the league with a PFN Defense Impact Score of 85.9, and the additions of Davis and Godchaux should help along the defensive line after DaVon Hamilton suffered a season-ending injury.

Bates is also expected to start at safety following Eric Murray’s season-ending elbow fracture.